Detection of antibodies against three zoonotic Bartonella spp. and cross-reactivity among species and Coxiella burnetii in dogs and cats from Central Thailand

The objectives of this study were to detect the seroprevalence of three zoonotic species of Bartonella and to evaluate cross-reactivity among Bartonella spp. and with C. burnetii. In total, 570 dog and cat serum samples were detected for antibodies against Bartonella spp. and C. burnetii using an indirect immunofluorescence antibody (IFA) test. At titer ≥ 1:64, tested serum that had a fluorescent intensity score ≥ 2 was interpreted as positive. Additionally, possible factors related to the seroprevalence were analyzed consisting of sex, breed, age, residing area, and ectoparasite control. Overall, the seroprevalence levels of Bartonella spp. and C. burnetii were 13.16% and 1.23%, respectively. All antigens of Bartonella were reacted to sera (1.23-7.72%), furthermore, both phases of C. burnetii were revealed in sera (0.35-1.05%). Interestingly, there was a poor agreement of cross-reactivity among Bartonella spp. at 5.56-8.70%, while cross-reactivity between Bartonella spp. and C. burnetii also showed poor agreement (2.80%). It is suggested that dogs and cats are important reservoirs of Bartonella spp., even in animals with ectoparasite control. The Bartonella seroprevalence was high in pure-breed animals with ectoparasite control, reflecting that Bartonella spp. infections can occur in owned, well-cared-for, and asymptomatic dogs and cats.PMID:34942506 | DOI:10.1016/j.cimid.2021.101743
Source: Comparative immunology, microbiology and infectious diseases. - Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Source Type: research